Dear Mom of 7: I still use Ambien to get a good nights sleep. I found that I need it especially on the 3 days ON with Andy's protocol since you need to take meds every 3 hours those days. Usually by the 2nd night I can get to sleep on less Ambien, but then by the 4th day off I need to take a full dose again. I am sure I will be off these by the time my adrenals and thyroid is all figured out.

I just recently found out that my adrenals and thyroid are in need of repair and began hydrocortisone and additional Armour thyroid meds which is helping with the daily energy and regulating cortisol levels. Spiking cortisol levels affect sleep in a MAJOR way. I used to not be able to sleep for days at a time or was woken up 5/6 times a night. This is getting much better.

I am convinced that the mercury attacked both of these areas, and that just chelation alone is not going to do it, especially after reading all the posts on this forum and others and then reviewing the www.stopthethyroidmadness.com website, which does an EXCELLENT job of tying adrenal and thyroid issues together, and just like Andy's website helps you figure out dosing for both HC and Armour. Also, check out www.drrind.com. In just three weeks I am finding my emotions are smoothing out and the "wired, but tired" feeling is slowing leaving (a sign of adrenal exhaustion). I have also been unable to take a nap since 2001, hardly ever yawn and seem to be getting this back as well, albeit, slowly.

One day at a time...I am finding that the more research I do on the suggested websites is helping me self diagnose and have much more informed discussions with my doctor, therefore leading to more pinpointed treatment.

Hope this helps....

Gabriella